Plantar fasciitis is a common and often debilitating condition that causes sharp, stabbing pain in the heel and arch of the foot. It’s caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. While various treatments exist, one of the most effective and accessible ways to manage the pain is by wearing the right footwear.
This review article provides a deep dive into the features that make a shoe suitable for plantar fasciitis and highlights some of the top-rated models from leading brands in 2025.
Top-Rated Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in 2025
The following shoes are highly regarded by users and podiatrists alike for their effectiveness in managing plantar fasciitis pain.
1. Hoka Bondi 9
- Best For: Maximal cushioning and shock absorption.
- Features: The Bondi 9 is famous for its maximalist design, featuring a thick, plush midsole that feels like walking on a cloud. It’s an excellent choice for individuals who need significant cushioning to absorb impact, especially during running or long walks. The shoe also includes a meta-rocker geometry for a smooth stride.
2. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
Best For: Stability and everyday wear.
- Features: The Adrenaline GTS series is a long-time favorite for a reason. Its GuideRails support system provides holistic support, keeping your foot properly aligned and preventing excessive motion. This is particularly beneficial for overpronators. The shoe offers a balanced blend of cushioning and support, making it a versatile option for both running and walking.
3. ASICS GEL-Kayano 31
- Best For: Stability and superior cushioning.
Features: The Gel-Kayano 31 is known for its exceptional stability and comfort. It incorporates ASICS’s signature GEL technology in the heel and forefoot for excellent shock absorption. The shoe’s structured design and 4D Guidance System help maintain proper foot alignment, making it a great option for those with flat feet or low arches.
4. New Balance 990v5
Best For: Blending comfort, support, and a classic style.
- Features: The New Balance 990v5 provides a perfect combination of a cushioned midsole with ENCAP technology for durability and stability. It’s known for its breathable mesh upper and a padded collar that enhances overall comfort. The shoe’s availability in multiple widths makes it an excellent choice for those with wide feet.
5. Brooks Ghost 17
- Best For: Neutral runners and walkers who need plush cushioning.
- Features: While the Adrenaline is a stability shoe, the Ghost is a neutral shoe with a focus on a soft, smooth ride. It’s ideal for those with a stable gait who don’t require extra support to prevent overpronation. The Ghost’s DNA LOFT v3 cushioning provides a well-balanced feel, making it a favorite for daily training and casual wear.
6. Hoka Clifton 10
- Best For: A lighter, more responsive feel than the Bondi.
- Features: The Clifton 10 is a great alternative to the Bondi, offering a more balanced level of cushioning. It’s a bit lighter and more responsive, making it an excellent choice for runners who want a cushioned shoe that still feels peppy. Its early-stage Meta-Rocker promotes a smooth, efficient stride.
7. Vionic Uptown Loafer
- Best For: Stylish, everyday wear with built-in support.
- Features: Vionic is a brand known for fusing fashion with podiatrist-approved support. The Uptown Loafer features contoured arch support and a deep heel cup, allowing you to wear a more polished, non-athletic shoe without sacrificing comfort and stability.
8. ASICS GT-2000 12
- Best For: Mild to moderate overpronation and long-distance running.
- Features: The GT-2000 is a classic stability shoe that is a slightly lighter and more streamlined alternative to the Gel-Kayano. It offers a firm, supportive ride with GEL cushioning in the heel and forefoot, making it a reliable choice for runners with flat feet or a tendency to overpronate.
9. Orthofeet Orthopedic Walking Shoes
- Best For: Dedicated orthopedic support and customizable fit.
- Features: As a brand specializing in orthopedic footwear, Orthofeet offers shoes with a focus on therapeutic benefits. Their shoes often feature a removable orthotic insole with arch support and heel cushioning, a wide toe box, and a non-binding upper. This design allows for a truly customized fit and is a go-to for those with severe foot pain or who need an orthotic-friendly shoe.
10. Saucony Guide 17
Features: The Saucony Guide 17 provides stability without feeling restrictive. It utilizes a “Center Path Technology” which helps center the foot for a smoother, more efficient stride. The shoe offers a good balance of support and cushioning, making it suitable for both running and walking.
Best For: A stable and cushioned ride with subtle guidance.
Key Features to Look for in a Plantar Fasciitis Shoe
Choosing the right shoe is paramount. Here’s a checklist of features to prioritize:
- Firm Arch Support:
This is arguably the most critical feature. A well-designed arch support helps to evenly distribute pressure across the foot and prevents the plantar fascia from overstretching. The support should feel firm and structured, not soft and flimsy.
Cushioned Midsole and Heel:
Look for shoes with a thick, shock-absorbing midsole. Materials like EVA foam, gel, or a combination of both provide crucial cushioning to reduce the impact of each step, which is particularly important for heel-strike runners or those who spend a lot of time on their feet.- Deep Heel Cup:
A deep heel cup helps to cradle and stabilize the heel. This prevents the foot from rolling inward (overpronation) or outward (supination), which can put extra strain on the plantar fascia. - Slight Heel-to-Toe Drop:
Shoes with a low to moderate heel drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) of around 6-10mm can help alleviate tension on the plantar fascia. This slight elevation shifts some of the pressure off the heel. - Midfoot Rigidity:
A supportive shoe should bend only at the toes, not in the middle. You can test this by trying to twist the shoe. A rigid or semi-rigid midsole prevents the arch from collapsing and provides essential stability. - Rocker Sole (Optional but Helpful):
A shoe with a curved, “rocker” sole can promote a smooth heel-to-toe transition. This can reduce the need for the foot to bend excessively, further minimizing strain on the plantar fascia. - Roomy Toe Box:
A shoe that is too narrow can compress the toes and exacerbate foot problems. A wide toe box allows your toes to splay naturally, improving stability and comfort.
Beyond the Shoe: Additional Considerations
While the right shoes are essential, they are just one part of a comprehensive strategy for managing plantar fasciitis.
- Consider Custom Orthotics: If over-the-counter insoles don’t provide enough relief, a podiatrist can create custom orthotics tailored to your specific foot structure.
- Avoid Flat and Worn-Out Shoes: Steer clear of unsupportive footwear like high heels, thin flats, and old, worn-out athletic shoes, as they can exacerbate symptoms.
- Stretching and Ice Therapy: Regularly stretching your calf muscles and plantar fascia, along with applying ice to the affected area, can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Consult a Professional: A podiatrist can provide a proper diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan, which may include physical therapy or other interventions.
By combining the right shoe with other management techniques, you can significantly reduce the pain of plantar fasciitis and get back to your daily activities with greater comfort.